If a country has a large working-age population but very low female labor-force participation, what effect may occur on the demographic dividend?

Correct answer: The potential dividend may be limited

A large working-age population creates a possible demographic dividend, but it does not guarantee economic gains. The dividend is strongest when people of working age can find productive employment, receive education and health support, and participate in economic activity. Women are an important part of this population, so very low female labor-force participation leaves a substantial potential workforce underused.

As a result, the country may receive only part of the possible benefit from its age structure, and the demographic dividend’s potential may be limited. Option A is correct. Low female participation does not automatically double the dividend, eliminate child dependency, or make the elderly population disappear. Other policies and conditions also matter, but the stated restriction clearly reduces the opportunity to convert a large working-age group into broader economic growth.